“Jeremiah entrusted the letter to Elasah and to Gemariah.” Jeremiah 29:3
In Old Testament times, when no mass communication technology existed and Jeremiah couldn’t be there in person, he had to rely on trusted intermediaries to deliver the revealed word of God to those in far away places. In the Digital Age, pastors and teachers are still depending on others to make sure the gospel gets to its intended audiences … far away and near.
A vital member in that circle of trust is the Church IT professional.
An IT professional is anyone who works with technology as the principal focus of his or her ministry activity. They maintain or create technologies on a daily basis. Someone has said they are the inventors, visionaries, engineers, technologists and artists all rolled up into one. I like that description.
Having worked alongside and managed technology professionals in Christian broadcasting and ministry for more than two decades, I have a great respect and appreciation for their unique contribution.
I’ve observed that in a ministry setting they can sometimes feel as though what they do has little direct impact on the gospel.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Whether a church has one-person, a full-service department or outsources technology work, the ability to have quality communication of the gospel – in physical venues and online – hinges on the success of the IT team.
A few of the characteristics I admire most in IT professionals:
They are creative – Much of what they do requires original ideas. I’ve seen accomplishments using technology for doing live outreach events that is pure artistry. Given the opportunity, they will help advance the mission through innovation.
They are relentless – “Failure is not an option” is not cliche to an IT pro. It’s a way of life. If something breaks and prohibits effective ministry, they will work nonstop until the issue or problem is resolved. Ice storms may shut the city down, but the gospel will be delivered one way or another thanks to the IT pros.
They are confident – Unanticipated situations occur with technology. IT pros are calm and resolved and think things through in a logical and consistent manner. They’re the margin of difference between successful and unsuccessful ministry outcomes when faced with technology issues and challenges.
The proficiency of today’s Church IT professionals allows the sufficiency of God’s Word and the all sufficiency of Christ to reach people everywhere.
They are trustworthy – They are loyal and generous. They have the range of knowledge and skills to deliver the gospel to anyone, anywhere with optimal results. As believers, they reflect Christ and the ministry of the Gospel in their conduct, character and commitment to technological excellence.
With the advent of church online, Internet campus and Internet broadcast ministry, a whole array of new career opportunities are opening up in Church IT. God is leading many into these important new works.
Church IT professionals are indispensable to the proclamation of the gospel using communication technology. Pastors and teachers can put the gospel in their hands and entrust it to be delivered with the utmost care and accuracy. Countless numbers of lives will be impacted for Christ as a result.
Question: What are some of the current challenges of Church IT?